The Area Police Office in Namche, an important tourist hub in the Sherpa heartland, is in a sorry state.

As the police office has been operating from a makeshift hut, the security personnel are struggling with the weather conditions throughout the year. 

“We cannot express our hardship in words. Even the passers-by have pity on us,” said Police Inspector Tejnarayan Yadav, adding that even some tourists were taken aback by plight of the security personnel. 

Namche police office is very important as it is the last security post in the Everest region. It is responsible for the security of Lukla Airport. 

However, the area police office, with 17 security personnel, has been operating from the Sagarmatha National Park. 

Deputy Superintendent of Police Madhav Budhathoki at the District Police Office acknowledging the difficulties of police personnel in Namche, said: “We have repeatedly asked the centre to build the office building in Namche. But it has not taken any decision on that yet,” said Budhathoki. 

Other institutions like health facilities and schools are comparatively in good condition owing to support from various foreign organisations and individuals. 

“Everyone feels sorry upon seeing the situation of the security personnel here. Amazed, foreigners often enquire if it is a police office” said Subas Tamang, a local tourism entrepreneur.